> WARNING: 911s are expensive...they can get very expensive, and they are
> addicting as hell. You really can't go wrong with any of these other cars
> I've (along with the list) have mentioned above.
Are they expensive as you become competitive and want to improved them or just
plain expensive? Often its better to start with something well engineered
than have to prepare and maintain something that was never intended to be
thrashed for extended periods. I'd have thought a standard 911 would be a lot
of fun and stand up to years of autocross, track days, and racing at a select
few events without the ambition to win. When you reach the point where you
want the trick bits or a marginal edge over the next 911 THEN I'd expect it to
get expensive.
Someone on this list moved from a Sprite to a pukka sports racer and was very
happy. An expensive engine build but just the once rather than one a year and a
couple of strip downs on an A series at treble its design power. No more
sulking at not being as quick as the cheatin' dogs. Tyres that clear the
bodywork. Light to move about the workshop and a joy to work on with excellent
access.
Its a blend of attributes that make a car the right one for you...
Alfas and Lancias are good cars in this respect. I have a Lancia Aurelia which
was a lot to buy but the engine can be raced for 50,000 miles, suspension
doesn't wear out, plus with brakes sized for racing down mountains the linings
last for, don't know as I haven't got there yet. (I'll stop here before I bore
you all rigid). A Lancia Fulvia is an excellent, and inexpensive, car.
Earlier Alfas are better than the Bertones.
The Fiat 124 is a hoot to drive but not of the same quality. You'll be glad
the parts are cheap because you'll be replacing disks, pad, bushes, and ball
joints all the time. I got bored of this just driving one hard on the road.
The engine is very tuneable and the handling a delight. It also has THE nicest
5 speed box. I'd say its more fun than a Fulvia and, in good condition, a
match for the Alfas.
MG Midgets are more fun than Bs. A 912 is a good torquey car.
When all comes to all ANY car is a lot of fun round a track. Have a go in
your daily driver while you kick some tyres and wait for the right car to find
you.
David Laver
London
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